EXPERT ADVICE

12 Weeks to Your First Triathlon: A Gameplan

Weeks 1–3 (Foundation)

1 of 5

Credit: Michael Dodge / Getty Images

SwimJoin a master's swim class and make sure you get filmed. It's the only way to really see and correct flaws in your stroke and breathing. After three weeks you should be able to swim at least 1,000 yards without stopping. Tip: Practice with buddies. Open-water swimming is a contact sport.